Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

Definition

The aorta is the largest artery in the body. The abdominal portion of the aorta carries blood to the abdomen, pelvis, and legs. Sometimes the walls of the aorta weaken and bulge in one area. This is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). AAAs are most often caused by
atherosclerosis
, also known as hardening of arteries, and
high blood pressure
.

Prior to Procedure

Your doctor may also need a record of your heart activity. This can be made with an
electrocardiogram.

Your doctor may ask you to see a cardiologist—a doctor who specializes in heart conditions. The cardiologist will check your heart before surgery.

You may need to stop taking certain medications 1 week before surgery. Talk to your doctor about your regular medications.

On the day of the procedure, you will be given an antibiotic by IV. You may also be given a laxative or enema to clear out your bowels.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia
will be used. It will block any pain and keep you asleep through the surgery. It is given through an IV.

Description of Procedure

This may be done as an open surgery or using an endovascular approach.

In an open surgery, an incision is made from the breastbone to below the belly button. The aorta is clamped slightly above and below the aneurysm. Any blood clot on the inside of the aorta is removed. An artificial wall is used to strengthen the area. This is called a graft. The graft will be stitched to the normal aorta on either side. Then, the clamps are removed. The wound is closed with stitches.

For the endovascular repair, a small incision will be made in your leg. A sleeve will be inserted in this incision and into the aorta. It will be advanced to the aneurysm. The sleeve will take pressure off the wall and prevent it from expanding or leaking. The incision will then be closed.

How Long Will It Take?

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia prevents pain during the procedure. Most people will be sore after the procedure and will be given pain medications.

Average Hospital Stay

The length of your hospital stay depends on your overall condition. Ask your doctor how long you should plan to stay.

Post-procedure Care

At the Hospital

While you are recovering at the hospital, you may receive the following care:

You will be sent to the intensive care unit for monitoring.

You will have tubes in place, which may include the following:

IV—provides medications and fluids

Urinary catheter—monitors urine output

Arterial catheter—monitors blood pressure

Central venous catheter—monitors pressure in the heart

Epidural catheter—provides pain medication

Nasogastric tube—inserted through the nose and into the stomach to remove secretions and provide nutrition until your intestines regain normal function

At Home

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

To help prevent further problems, you and your doctor will need to work to increase your overall health. This can be done with medications and a healthy lifestyle. If you are a smoker, you should talk to your doctor about quitting.

Follow your doctor's instructions.

Call Your Doctor

Contact your doctor if your recovery is not progressing as expected or you develop complications such as:

Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge at the incision site

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.